Former Tottenham and Liverpool star Jamie Redknapp believes Arsenal may have to sell club captain Robin van Persie in January.
The Dutch magician has been in majestic form this season scoring 10 league goals so far this term, including a superb hat-trick during Saturday’s 5-3 win over Chelsea.
The striker has just over 18 months to run on his current deal and van Persie and refused to discuss a contract extension until the end of the season. Now Redknapp feels it’s time for the Arsenal board to either make him the highest paid player in the clubs history, or sell the 28-year-old this January when his stoke is at it’s highest.
Redknapp also feels should the Gunners decide to sell, both Man Utd and Man City will be waiting in the wings. He explained in his column for the Daily Mail:
“After being forced to sell Samir Nasri and losing Cesc Fabregas, Arsenal’s board must decide if they want to make Van Persie the highest-paid player in their history, or sell up when he is at the peak of his powers. Wait until the summer and his value will decrease because his contract will be running down – or sell THIS January for maximum price? That is the power of the Bosman rule, where players hold all the aces.
“Arsenal have suffered from a number of will-he, won’t-he transfer sagas over the years and the chance of Van Persie, 28, ending his career at Arsenal must be unlikely, especially if they are unable to compete for the big trophies.
“At his age, this is the biggest contract of his life and Arsenal fans, who have had to become used to their star names leaving the club in recent times, will know this is a pivotal moment. I hope he stays.
“The Premier League needs its star players, its poster boys. He is the form player and could be the next Dutchman to be the Footballer of the Year at the end of this season, although Spain’s David Silva might have something to say about that.
“The leading English clubs, such as Manchester United and Manchester City, will be licking their lips at the prospect of causing more trouble for Arsenal.
“He would be worth around £30million this January and, because of the way he plays the game with that sweet left foot, would fit in at both clubs.”
